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Celebrities tweet support to ‘Empire’ star Jussie Smollett after brutal attack

FBI reportedly has joined the investigation into possible hate crime after actor says he received a threatening letter before the attack

‘Empire’ Star Jussie Smollett Hospitalized After Apparent Hate Crime The actor transported himself to the hospital early Tuesday morning after what the Chicago Police Department say was a “possible racially-charged assault and battery." A 911 call reveals Smollett was assaulted after leaving his apartment. The police statement says the assaulters gained his attention by “yelling out racial and homophobic slurs towards him.” The Chicago Police Department, via statement The Chicago Police Department,
By
Jan 30, 2019

Hollywood is rallying behind “Empire” star Jussie Smollett after the actor was brutally attacked Tuesday in Chicago in what police are investigating as a possible hate crime.

Smollett, 36, was walking around 2 a.m., police said, when two people he didn't know started yelling racial and homophobic slurs at him, ABC 7 in Chicago reported.

After being verbally accosted, the two men allegedly struck Smollett in the face with their hands and poured a chemical on him, ABC 7 reported. Police said one attacker wrapped a rope around Smollett’s neck before the two ran away.

ABC News has now reported the FBI is stepping in because of a mailed threat sent to the star eight days ago.

Once news of the attack broke, celebrities and politicians turned out on social media to support Smollett, and to condemn racist and homophobic attacks.

MORE: AJC interview with Jussie Smollett

About the Author

Nancy Clanton is a lead producer for The AJC's platforms team, but also writes stories about health, travel, events and entertainment. A native of Knoxville and graduate of the University of Tennessee, she has worked at the AJC for 24 years.

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